Research

The Center for Neuromodulation at Mount Sinai is committed to research so that patients can benefit from new and innovative treatments. Research is enhanced by the quality of the academic environment at Mount Sinai.

The Center participates in groundbreaking clinical trials, including:

Phase 2b Trial of CERE-120 for Parkinson's Disease

Alzheimer’s Study

The Center for Neuromodulation at Mount Sinai is one of only eight institutions participating in the Ceregene sponsored clinical trial called Phase 2b Trial of CERE-120 for Parkinson's Disease which is designed to slow the progression of Parkinson's disease. The study evaluates the safety and potential benefits of CERE-120 in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. CERE-120 is an experimental drug that consists of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) that was engineered to carry the human gene for neurturin, a neurotrophic (growth) factor. Similar to other growth factors (such as GDNF), neurturin is capable of restoring function and protecting brain cells from further damage. The virus used in CERE-120 is not known to cause disease in people. CERE-120 is delivered directly to the brain cells most affected in Parkinson's disease - the dopamine producing neurons. CERE-120 is injected during brain surgery. Once in place, CERE-120 continuously produces neurturin.

In addition, we are exploring the use of cortical stimulation, which is an experimental therapy not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Implantation of a cortical stimulation device is considered safer than a deep brain stimulation device because the stimulating electrodes are placed on the surface of the brain rather than within. Cortical stimulation is a type of neuromodulation that stimulates the surface of the brain to alter neurological disorders. Ongoing research involving cortical stimulation is being conducted to treat chronic pain, major depression and tinnitus.